§ 59. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that unemployment in Aberdeen is still increasing, that this affects not only the major industries in the city but also the related industries in the county and in the Highlands and that discontent and distress continue to grow in these areas; and if he will now specify, as a matter of urgency, the additional steps he has taken, is taking, and intends to take, to solve the relevant problems.
§ Mr. J. RodgersI am aware of the concern felt about unemployment in Aberdeen and the Highlands. I cannot, however, add much to the previous Answers given to the hon. and learned Member on 29th January, 27th January, 20th January, 3rd December and 6th November. I have myself in the past few days written to 50 thousand managing directors drawing their attention to the assistance the Government are prepared to give to firms setting up factories in these areas, and the Board of Trade Regional organisation is constantly on the look-out for firms to expand there.